Gavin McKenna Is Bringing New Life to Toronto

A new chapter has begun in Toronto, and Gavin McKenna is already giving Maple Leafs fans plenty of reasons to be excited.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft has shown flashes of exactly why he was one of hockey’s most anticipated prospects throughout the preseason. After making his debut against Montreal, McKenna took another step forward against Ottawa, recording his first preseason point with an assist on a John Tavares goal as Toronto rolled to a 6-1 victory. His confidence with the puck, creativity and willingness to attack defenders have brought a noticeable spark to a Leafs team looking for a fresh start.

McKenna isn’t the only reason for excitement. Auston Matthews looked locked in against the Senators, finishing with three points and capping off his night with a vintage Matthews snipe. After scoring 20 goals in an injury-shortened 2025-26 season, seeing Toronto’s captain firing the puck with confidence is an encouraging sight heading into the regular season.

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages McKenna has entering his rookie season is the talent surrounding him. At just 18 years old, he has the opportunity to pick the brains of Matthews, John Tavares, William Nylander and Matthew Knies. Matthews and Tavares can offer particularly valuable perspectives as former No. 1 overall picks themselves, while McKenna has already been skating alongside Tavares and Nylander. Matthews has also praised McKenna’s confidence and ability to quickly find his groove with the team.

Toronto also made one of the biggest moves of the offseason by signing veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky to a three-year contract. The two-time Vezina Trophy winner and back-to-back Stanley Cup champion brings experience and stability in net, and he stopped 13 of 14 shots in Toronto’s 6-1 preseason win over Ottawa.

Between McKenna’s arrival, Matthews looking locked in and Bobrovsky providing a championship presence in goal, there is a different feeling surrounding the Maple Leafs. McKenna may still only be 18, but he has landed in a rare situation for a No. 1 pick — surrounded by elite players he can learn from while having the opportunity to immediately become an important part of Toronto’s next chapter.